Name: Hot Honey Feta Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp garlic powder; ½ tsp onion powder; ½ tsp cumin; ½ tsp salt; ¼ tsp black pepper; 1 tbsp lemon juice; ¼ cup honey; 1–2 tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste); 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice; 1 tbsp butter or olive oil; 1 garlic clove, finely minced; Optional: pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat; ½ cup crumbled feta cheese; Fresh parsley or mint, chopped; Lemon zest or juice; Optional: toasted sesame seeds or extra chili flakes

Jump to Recipe

Let’s talk about the bold, crave-worthy wonder that is Hot Honey Feta Chicken. This dish is the perfect storm of savory, sweet, spicy, and creamy, all wrapped around juicy, tender chicken. The honey brings just the right kiss of heat, which pools over golden chicken and tangy feta for a combination you’ll want on repeat. With vibrant herbs, citrusy brightness, and a breeze of chili, this Hot Honey Feta Chicken is the kind of easy, unforgettable meal that instantly transforms an ordinary dinner night into something absolutely special.

Hot Honey Feta Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes Hot Honey Feta Chicken so irresistible is its surprisingly simple ingredient list—each piece plays a starring role in the ultimate flavor symphony. Every element, from the smoky spices and zippy lemon to the golden drizzle of hot honey and crumbly feta, contributes a unique layer to this colorful, crowd-pleasing dish.

Chicken thighs or breasts: Go for 1½ lbs of boneless, skinless options—thighs for juicy richness, breasts for leaner bites. Both work beautifully!
Olive oil: Helps create a golden sear and imparts fruity undertones to the marinade and sauce.
Paprika: Adds a warm, gently smoky backbone to the seasoning.
Garlic powder: Infuses savory depth without overpowering the honey or feta.
Onion powder: Boosts umami and balances the sweetness of the sauce.
Cumin: Gives a hint of earthiness that’s irresistible alongside honey and feta.
Salt: Essential for bringing all the flavors forward—don’t skimp!
Black pepper: Adds subtle bite and complements the heat from the chili.
Lemon juice: Offers tang and brightness in both marinade and sauce.
Honey: The sweet anchor of the sauce—choose a good-quality, runny honey for best results.
Chili flakes: Adjust to taste for that signature hot honey kick!
Apple cider vinegar or lemon juice: Either adds a gentle, balancing acidity to the sauce.
Butter or olive oil: Gives the hot honey sauce luxurious body and richness.
Garlic clove: Freshly minced, it turns the hot honey truly aromatic.
Cayenne pepper (optional): For an extra jolt of heat if you’re feeling bold.
Feta cheese: Tangy, crumbly, and delightfully creamy—absolutely essential on top.
Fresh parsley or mint: Chopped herbs add a burst of fresh, green color and flavor.
Lemon zest or juice: For a last hit of citrus that lifts everything on the plate.
Toasted sesame seeds or extra chili flakes (optional): For crunch and a hint of extra heat in your final flourish.

How to Make Hot Honey Feta Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

First things first: pat your chicken pieces dry to ensure they absorb all that glorious flavor. Pop them into a bowl and drizzle with olive oil and a squeeze of lemon. Sprinkle on your smoky paprika, aromatic garlic and onion powders, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spatula to coat every nook and cranny, then let the chicken marinate for at least 10–15 minutes. If you have a bit of extra time, tuck it into the fridge for up to an hour—the flavors will only get better!

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Your next decision is stovetop or oven. For stovetop, heat a skillet over medium-high until sizzling, then sear chicken thighs for 5–6 minutes per side (breasts need only 4–5). You’re looking for beautifully golden outsides and juicy, cooked-through centers. Prefer to bake? Simply preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), arrange the marinated chicken in a baking dish, drizzle a touch more oil on top, and bake for 20–25 minutes. Either way, your kitchen will smell absolutely divine!

Step 3: Make the Hot Honey Sauce

While your chicken cooks, it’s hot honey time! Combine honey, chili flakes, butter or olive oil, minced garlic, and either apple cider vinegar or lemon juice in a small saucepan. Let it all simmer gently over medium heat for 2–3 minutes, just until everything is warm, toasty, and fragrant. Taste and adjust, especially if you want more heat—just sprinkle in some cayenne if desired. This sauce is pure liquid gold.

Step 4: Assemble and Finish

Once the chicken is ready, transfer it to a serving platter and generously drizzle your freshly made hot honey sauce all over. Top immediately with crumbled feta, allowing the heat to soften and slightly melt the cheese into gorgeous creamy pools. Finish with a shower of fresh parsley or mint, bright lemon zest, and if you’re feeling playful, sprinkle on some toasted sesame seeds or extra chili flakes. Every element combines for maximum drama and flavor.

Step 5: Serve

Your Hot Honey Feta Chicken is ready to shine! Serve alongside fluffy rice, earthy couscous, roasted veggies, or warm slices of flatbread to soak up every last drop of sauce. Don’t be shy with spooning extra hot honey over everything on your plate—trust me, you’ll want every bit.

How to Serve Hot Honey Feta Chicken

Garnishes

A big part of the charm of Hot Honey Feta Chicken lies in its vibrant finish. Shower your platter with freshly chopped parsley or mint for a pop of herbaceous green, a generous dusting of lemon zest for zing, and a good crumble of feta for that signature salty-tangy contrast. For added texture and beauty, toasted sesame seeds or a pinch of extra chili flakes take things to the next level.

Side Dishes

This main goes with nearly anything, but a few sides make it even more showstopping. Pair your Hot Honey Feta Chicken with a bed of fluffy rice or buttery couscous to soak up that magical sauce. Roasted or grilled veggies bring out the dish’s Mediterranean flair, while pillowy flatbread lets you mop up every delicious morsel. For a lighter touch, a bright green salad tossed with lemony dressing works beautifully too.

Creative Ways to Present

To really impress your guests, slice the chicken and arrange it over a generous platter, then drizzle the hot honey sauce and scatter all your toppings right before serving. Or, try piling it into pita pockets with crunchy cucumber and tomato for a vibrant handheld feast. You can also make sliders with soft buns and a spoonful of leftover sauce, or serve the chicken atop grain bowls with quinoa, greens, and your favorite roasted veggies for a modern twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Hot Honey Feta Chicken (lucky you!), let it cool before transferring to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen as it rests, making it just as crave-worthy for lunch the next day. Store any extra hot honey sauce separately, if possible, to keep everything fresh and flavorful.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze this dish, though it’s best to hold off on garnishing with fresh herbs and feta until after reheating. Place cooled chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container, separating portions for easy grab-and-go meals. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

To reheat, add chicken and sauce to a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or stock if needed to loosen the sauce. Warm gently until piping hot but not dried out. Alternatively, microwave covered in short bursts until heated through. Add fresh feta, herbs, and your finishing touches after reheating for the most vibrant result.

FAQs

Can I make Hot Honey Feta Chicken with bone-in chicken?

Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time as needed—bone-in pieces may take a little longer to cook through (use a thermometer to check for doneness). The results will be incredibly juicy and flavorful.

Is there a substitute for feta cheese?

If feta isn’t your favorite, try using creamy goat cheese or even ricotta salata for a similar tangy effect. For a milder flavor, crumbled queso fresco or paneer can also work in a pinch.

How spicy is the hot honey sauce?

The beauty of Hot Honey Feta Chicken is how customizable it is! You control the heat level—start with a teaspoon of chili flakes and add more or a pinch of cayenne if you like things fiery, or stick with just a hint for a balanced, flavorful warmth.

Can I prep this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Marinate the chicken a day before for even deeper flavor, and prep the hot honey sauce in advance. When ready to eat, just cook the chicken and heat the sauce, then proceed with assembling and topping as usual.

What’s the best way to get crispy edges on my chicken?

Make sure to pat the chicken dry before marinating and use medium-high heat when searing in a skillet. Don’t overcrowd the pan, and let the chicken develop a deep golden crust on each side for that irresistible texture.

Final Thoughts

I hope you fall in love with Hot Honey Feta Chicken as much as I have. It’s an absolute joy to cook and even more delightful to eat—perfect for sharing with friends or keeping all to yourself. Give it a try soon and let this sweet, spicy, tangy creation become your next favorite dinner!

Hot Honey Feta Chicken Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 14 reviews

Author: Mariam
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

A tantalizing recipe for Hot Honey Feta Chicken that combines succulent chicken with a spicy-sweet hot honey sauce and tangy feta cheese. Perfect for a flavorful and satisfying meal!

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken – Pat chicken dry and place in a bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, then coat with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Let sit for 10–15 minutes (or up to 1 hour refrigerated).
Step 2: Cook the Chicken – Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium-high. Sear chicken for 5–6 minutes per side (thighs) or 4–5 minutes (breasts) until cooked through. Oven: Preheat to 400°F (200°C). Place chicken in a baking dish, drizzle with oil, and bake for 20–25 minutes.
Step 3: Make the Hot Honey Sauce – In a small saucepan, combine honey, chili flakes, butter or oil, garlic, and vinegar. Simmer over medium heat for 2–3 minutes until bubbly and fragrant. Adjust spice with more chili or cayenne as desired.
Step 4: Assemble and Finish – Pour hot honey sauce over the cooked chicken. Top with crumbled feta. Let sit a few minutes to slightly melt the feta. Garnish with parsley or mint, lemon zest, and optional sesame seeds or chili flakes.
Step 5: Serve – Serve with rice, couscous, roasted vegetables, or warm flatbread. Spoon extra sauce over sides for maximum flavor.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop, Oven
Cuisine: Mediterranean